On February 2, during a session of the House of Representatives Budget Committee, Prime Minister Sanae Takagi called for the participation of the Democratic Party for the People in the bipartisan discussions of the 'Social Security National Council.' However, she indicated a clear distance from minor opposition parties. While the government is pushing for the urgent establishment of the initial budget for the new fiscal year, concerns have been raised by opposition regarding the potential 'hollowing out of Diet deliberations.' Prime Minister Takagi remains unfazed by these criticisms.

In the ongoing discussions of the National Council, which focus on matters such as a temporary zero consumption tax on food and tax credits for low-income individuals, Takagi has insisted that her position is based on a recognition that the consumption tax is a critical revenue source for social security. She is seeking cooperation from the opposition parties on the condition that they acknowledge this importance. As of the first meeting on February 26, participation from opposition parties was limited to the Mirai team, while the Democratic Party for the People and the Center Reform Union chose not to attend.

During the Budget Committee session, member Tetsu Asano from the Democratic Party expressed concerns that if an agreement is reached between the ruling and opposition parties outside of the Diet, it would undermine the role of the parliament as a democratic institution, suggesting that it becomes merely a ratification body. In response, Takagi argued that the meetings of the National Council will provide an opportunity to consolidate ideas and submit necessary legislation for discussion in the Diet, asserting that this process ensures adequate democratic deliberation.